Sometimes it’s refreshing to break old traditions
If you have been reading my column for more than a year (so we’ve already had at least one Christmas together) you’ll know I’m obsessed with the festive season. To be fair, you’d be forgiven for thinking I’m obsessed about a lot of things because I do have a bit of an addictive personality.
I just love the festive holidays and, of course, this year is even more special because it will be our first with our daughter Harley who is now 10 months old!
I also love traditions and I just love things to be the same, which is why since I left home at 22, I’ve still insisted on getting a gigantic real tree because that’s what we had growing up. It hasn’t mattered whether we’ve lived in a top floor flat in North End, a terraced house in Copnor or a bungalow in Clanfield, we lug a real tree anywhere (Okay, well, Matt lugs it but I choose it and I do insist that it’s a biggie).
My dad used to say growing up I was never happy unless we couldn’t get it through the door frame and quite frankly not a lot has changed.
However this year and because of having a crawling baby who is into absolutely everything we’ve opted for an artificial one – my first – and I admit I blooming love it!
I’m disappointed in myself for admitting it because I’ve always flown the flag for real trees (spruces are my favourite).
But when my auntie and uncle said last year that they were getting rid of theirs (you know, during a time when you could actually see aunts and uncles – remember that?), I thought I best be sensible this year with a baby.
I have to say I love how perfect the shape is, how the decorations look and I think I’m a bit obsessed with it – see? Addictive personality. I’ve bought more decorations than one tree needs, I’ve colour matched it red and gold and I just love it.
Perhaps I’ll start a new tradition with an artificial one? I feel guilty even thinking about it, but perhaps 2020 is the year for a change. It certainly hasn’t been like any other year, so maybe now’s the time for new?